The Tonkinese is a medium sized cat. Their body is well balanced, firm and muscular and the back rises slightly from shoulders to rump. The Tonkinese coat is short and close lying and the texture is fine, soft and silky and has a lustrous sheen.
The coat pattern demands that the points, i.e. the mask, ears, legs and tail, are definitely darker than the body and merge gently with the body colour. The Tonkinese comes in a wide variety of different colours.
The Tonkinese has the same affectionate, friendly nature, as it’s close relatives the Burmese and Siamese.
They are very people orientated and make ideal family pets. ‘Tonks’ are very inquisitive and intelligent.
They can be trained to do tricks and require toys and games for amusement.
They love company and if they are to be left alone for long periods of time a companion is a necessity. They are quiet vocal and will chatter happily to you and follow you around. Their natural curiosity means they can often get into difficult situations and they are probably best kept in the house or a secure garden.
They do not mind being housecats as long as they have a companion and plenty to amuse them.
The Tonkinese does not need special grooming as its short coat is self-maintaining but they do enjoy the attention that grooming brings.
